Who approves the clock operators during a game?

The approval of the clock operators during a game is a responsibility that falls to the referee. The referee, as the chief official, oversees the game and ensures that all aspects of the game are conducted according to the rules. This includes the oversight of timing, which is critical to the flow and management of the game.

Since the clock operators are tasked with keeping track of the game time and any related stoppages, their competence is essential to maintaining an accurate game clock. The referee assesses the qualifications of the clock operators and has the authority to approve them for the duration of the game. This role is crucial as inaccurate timing can lead to significant issues during gameplay and can affect the outcome of the match.

In contrast, the head coach, game officials, and team captains do not have the designated authority or responsibility to approve the clock operators, making the referee the correct choice in this context.